The Gentleperson’s Guide to Shiang
PrinceCon Staff
Honor and duty are the lifeblood of Shiang. While we think of this most organized of countries as a power in its own right, it is in fact the far-flung eastern province of a vast empire that stretches into the West. The lastest Governor of Shiang arrived only a few months ago, and is still learning our ways.
There are ranks in Shiang society, yet these are not hereditary and must be earned. The inhabitants are hard-working--in a languid style quite unique to Shiang--honest, and absorbed by their own concerns and comforts. If this juggernaut of committed bureaucrats should look to expand further east, the results might be--unimaginable. As the perfect performance of one’s duty is more prized than wit or intellect, there are no universities or elegant gatherings to be found here. The masses enjoy watching arranged hunts or races--either on foot or horseback--on their days off, and athletes are respected without receiving the adulation one might find in another country.
Shiang is so different from the eastern lands that a cosmopolitan traveler may want to experience this well-ordered nation for themselves, but there are no great palaces or museums to infiltrate. The glory of Shiang is its cuisine. Both spicy and subtle, its food is an exquisite delight to the senses. Try the Five Stone Eatery near the main square in Bhind, or the intimate Jute Box by the Gnarled Cat Hotellerie, where the placement of food on the plate is in itself an artform.
For those who lack enthusiasm for inventive foods, I suggest you make your travel plans elsewhere. Shiang is a paradise for those interested in efficiency--and the inhabitants are not without their own subtle guile--but for students of the ineffable arts of humanity it is a sleepy and inward-turned part of the world. Fortunately for the fate of all, Shiang is not eager to expand its borders--but historically the Governor will take advantage of any political unrest to add to his territory. One is tempted to make comparisons with ants, but of course such a committed, patient, and honorable people deserve a more complimentary metaphor from the open-minded traveler.
Shiang at a glance:
Governor: la Comtesse did not have his name at the time of this writing
People: in the port city of Bhind, Catfolk (62%), Human (25%), Other (13%). In the interior, the percentage of Catfolk increases
Religions: Several appear to be practiced, though none appear to be endorsed by the Empire
Symbol: A circle divided into white and black